With high levels of pollution in the air and toxins in the food we eat, the number of people suffering from respiratory issues has increased across the world. People tend to use antibiotics to combat these respiratory problems and they have worked to some extent in controlling the symptoms, but they have actually ended up making the bacteria more resistant. In addition to that, antibiotics have not been able to cure the issues of the root, nor have they been able to reduce the recurrence of respiratory illness in people.

The inability of conventional medication to address this issue of increasing numbers of respiratory problems has led people to look for alternative remedies. Herbs offer a good alternative and there are various herbs that can be used for different types of respiratory issues.

It should also be noted that herbs do not work overnight and therefore need to be taken for a longer period of time. You also may have to try different herbs in order to find the one that suits you best.

How Herbs Work

Different herbs work in different ways to help in improving respiratory health. Some work as expectorants that help in expelling foreign material from the sinuses, throat and chest. Some soothe irritable nasal and throat passages and others relax respiratory tract muscles. Some herbs are also a source of antioxidants that help in reducing damage done due to oxidation.

The Best Herbs for Respiratory Health

Here are some herbs that are great for respiratory health and the manner in which they work.

Licorice Root

An extremely popular herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, licorice root helps by soothing the mucous membranes of the throat and lungs. The saponins cause the phlegm to loosen, thereby ensuring the herb also works as an expectorant.

Compounds found in licorice root also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties helping this herb work in multiple ways to improve respiratory health. In fact, some flavonoids and glycyrrhizin present in the herb help in fighting off free radicals formed in the lungs and so can help prevent lung cancer.

Osha Root

Found in the Rocky Mountains, osha root has been used extensively by Native Americans. This root contains camphor which helps increase circulation to the lungs. This increased circulation helps facilitate deeper breathing. Osha root is also effective in fighting off seasonal flare-ups of allergic sinus problems because it works as an antihistamine.

Lobelia

Used by the Appalachians as an asthmador, lobelia contains lobeline that helps in reducing congestion by breaking up mucus. Lobelia extract is also used in many conventional cough medicines since it soothes the throat and respiratory muscles. Lobeline also helps release adrenaline that relaxes muscles in the airways making clear breathing much easier.

Lungwort

A lichen that grows on trees, this herb actually looks like lung tissue. Not only does it look like lungs, it is also beneficial for lungs. This herb has been known to clear congestion more effectively than any other herb.

Sage

The essential oils contained in sage leaves give a heady aroma that helps in soothing a sore throat. It is sometimes ingested in the form of a tea and at other times sage vapors are taken via inhalation. Specific oils like camphor, thujone, salvene and terpene help in treating sinusitis as well as work as a decongestant.

According to the Lung Institute, medical marijuana has been found useful in reducing inflammation, improving sleep, easing pain, supporting the immune system, and reducing phlegm. [Reference] Cannabis has also been found to be beneficial in the treatment of some cancers, as well as helpful in managing the side effects of mainstream cancer therapies. [Reference]

Thyme

This common cooking herb has antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties. These are the properties that make it extremely effective at fighting bacteria that attack the respiratory system.

Oregano

The carvacrol and rosmarinic acid content help boost the immune system and act as an antihistamine and decongestant. The oil extracted from this herb can fight off Staphylococcus, one of the most common bacteria that attacks the respiratory system.

Elecampane

Another herb that has been used extensively by the Native American people for years, elecampane helps in clearing mucus and attacks bacteria that inhabit the lungs and throat. This is one herb that finds a citation in ancient medicine practiced by the Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and Indians. The active ingredients that are responsible for the soothing effect are insulin and alantolactone.

Mullein

A natural cleansing of bronchial tubes, stronger lungs and reduction of mucus is what mullein has to offer. It is often prepared as a tea and consumed.

The immune system is an amazingly intricate and complex system that keeps us healthy and protects us against all sorts of invaders

Like with many things, we often don’t notice or think about our immune system until something goes wrong with it. A healthy immune system helps to ensure systemic health and protection! And the first line of defense in any fight is to maintain structural integrity – which means taking steps to ensure a supported, healthy immune system.

ImmunityPlus is a 100% safe, non-addictive, natural herbal remedy formulated to help maintain systemic balance and immune system health, without harmful side effects.

ImmunityPlus contains a selection of herbs known for their supportive function in maintaining immune system well-being, thereby helping to keep you healthy and strong.

The formula remains true to the full spectrum method of herbal extraction, ensuring the bioavailability and balance of all the active ingredients contained in the remedy. This manufacturing method also significantly reduces the likelihood of side effects and ensures that all active ingredients are in perfect balance.

All Native Remedies products are manufactured in FDA-registered, cGMP-compliant facilities under the supervision of an expert team of herbalists, naturopaths, homeopaths and responsible pharmacists.